Italy has successfully repelled cyber attacks that originated from Russia and aimed at its key facilities during the Winter Olympics. Notable targets included hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the host city for the games, as well as buildings associated with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its embassy in Washington, D.C. The incidents came to light as the Olympics commenced, with several competitions already underway.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reported on the cyber attack attempts during an interview, stating that a series of cyber threats were directed at government entities within Italy. He further clarified that the origins of these attacks were traced back to Russian sources, highlighting Italy's preparedness for such incidents, particularly given the tense political climate and ongoing discussions about the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international competitions.

The matter of Russian and Belarusian participation in sports events has been a contentious issue leading up to the Olympics, with the International Olympic Committee's president, Kirsty Covent, weighing in on the situation. This development showcases the intersection of international diplomacy and sports, indicating that the backdrop of political tensions could influence the narrative and operations surrounding the Olympics.